Where to Stay in Sapporo, Japan: 4 Best Areas & Hotels
Planning a trip to Sapporo and not sure where to base yourself? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!
After spending time exploring Japan’s northern capital, I’ve gotten to know the city’s neighborhoods and what makes each one shine. Whether you’re here for snow festivals, delicious miso ramen, or just to soak in the city views and Japanese culture, choosing the right area can make a big difference.
From the buzz of Susukino to the peaceful paths of Nakajima Park, each area has its own vibe and perks. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best places to stay in Sapporo, who each area is best for, and my top hotel picks for every budget.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay is near Sapporo Station! This makes getting around the city a breeze, and there are a lot of good hotel and restaurant options.
We recommend staying at the Hotel Keihan Sapporo. It offers a luxury stay without breaking the bank, and the location can’t be beat!
Where To Stay In Sapporo Map
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Sapporo
Sapporo’s downtown areas are compact, walkable, and well-connected by an easy-to-use subway system—making it super convenient and easy to get around no matter where you base yourself. From the buzzing nightlife of Susukino to the peaceful charm of Nakajima Park, each area offers something a little different. In this section, we’ll give you a quick rundown of the best places to stay in Sapporo, so you can pick the perfect spot for your visit!
- Sapporo Station – Located in the Kita ward, this is the most convenient area to stay if you want to be near the main station and well-connected to the rest of the city. Hotel Keihan Sapporo is a great mid-range choice just a few minutes’ walk from the station, offering cozy rooms and a Japanese-style bath.
- North of Odori Park – A central and easygoing neighborhood perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the calm beauty of Odori Park. Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo offers comfy rooms and a lovely location within walking distance of the park’s greenery and city attractions.
- Susukino – Sapporo’s liveliest neighborhood, packed with bars, izakayas, and nightlife—it’s the place to stay if you want to be in the middle of the action. Sapporo Stream Hotel combines sleek design and comfort just steps from the entertainment district, with options ranging from budget-friendly rooms to luxe suites.
- Nakajima Park – This peaceful, leafy area is ideal for travelers who want to stay somewhere quiet but still be close to the city buzz. Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo blends modern comfort with a park-side location, complete with spacious rooms and a great breakfast.
Important Tip
Multiple Sapporo trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Sapporo accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Sapporo, Japan
Sapporo Station
If it’s your first time in Sapporo, staying near Sapporo Station is a no-brainer. This is the city’s main transportation hub, where JR trains, subways, and buses all converge—making it incredibly easy to get around the city or head out on day trips to Otaru, the mountains, or the airport. It’s also home to massive shopping complexes like JR Tower, Daimaru, and Stellar Place, plus countless restaurants, cafés, and underground walkways that are a lifesaver in the winter.
The area is best suited for first-time visitors, shoppers, and anyone planning to use public transit frequently. It’s also ideal if you’re arriving in Sapporo by train or need quick access to New Chitose Airport. While the vibe is a bit more commercial than charming, the convenience factor here is unbeatable.
Nearby sights include the Sapporo Beer Museum, Hokkaido University’s picturesque campus, and the northern edge of Odori Park which has the famous TV Tower. It’s also a great base during the Sapporo Snow Festival, with events often spilling over from Odori and Susukino.
Pros
- Super convenient location for transportation and day trips
- Excellent shopping, dining, and underground access—especially in winter
Cons
- Lacks the character and nightlife of other areas like Susukino
- Can feel a bit busy and corporate, especially during rush hours
Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo – $$$
If you’re looking for a stay that’s super central but still feels calm and comfortable, Keio Plaza Hotel Sapporo is a great choice. This 5-star hotel is just a five-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station, which makes it super easy to drop your bags and dive straight into exploring.
The rooms are surprisingly spacious (especially for Japan), and the whole hotel has that polished, big-hotel feel without being stuffy. Beds are comfy, Wi-Fi is reliable, and some rooms even have views of the Hokkaido University gardens—something you don’t expect right in the middle of the city.
There are also several restaurants on-site, including a delicious breakfast buffet, and even a gym if you’re feeling ambitious. Prices vary depending on the room type and season, but expect to pay between $150 and $400 USD per night.
Check availability for your travel dates here!
Hotel Keihan Sapporo – $$
We stayed at Hotel Keihan Sapporo during one of our recent trips, and it was such a solid base for exploring the city. The location was super convenient—just a 5 minute walk from JR Sapporo Station, which made getting around really easy, especially for day trips.
The rooms are compact (as expected in Japan), but they were clean, well-designed, and had everything we needed: comfy beds, a mini fridge, a kettle, and strong Wi-Fi. One of our favorite features was the on-site public bath (kind of like a large hot tub). It was the perfect way to unwind after a chilly day out!
There’s also a 24-hour convenience store right downstairs, which was dangerously convenient for late-night snack runs. Prices are really reasonable too, usually between $60 and $180 USD per night, with some rates even including a delicious breakfast. If you’re after a central, budget-friendly stay that still feels comfortable and reliable, this place definitely ticks all the boxes.
Book our favorite hotel near Sapporo Station here!
JR East Hotel Mets Premier Sapporo – $
If you’re arriving in Sapporo by train, this is about as convenient as it gets. JR East Hotel Mets Premier Sapporo is directly connected to the station’s North Exit, which means no dragging your suitcase through snow or across intersections—just hop off the train and you’re basically there!
Rooms are fresh, modern, and surprisingly quiet given the location. You’ll find comfy beds, blackout curtains, a separate bath and shower (so nice after a cold day out!), plus extra’s like an electric kettle and TV.
There’s also a cozy Italian restaurant on-site, where guests can enjoy a relaxed brunch or a casual dinner without leaving the hotel. For everything else you need, you’re surrounded by restaurants and shops inside the station complex. Prices usually start around $100 to $200 USD per night, depending on the season and room type.
Check availability for this popular and convenient stay here!
Related Read: Need ideas on what to do while you’re here? Our 3-day Sapporo itinerary is what we followed when we were here and it has all the best activities, places to eat and more!
North of Odori Park
Just north of Odori Park, you’ll find a polished, central slice of Sapporo that’s ideal for travelers who want convenience without the chaos. This area bridges the space between Sapporo Station and Odori, making it perfect if you want to explore both ends of the city without constantly hopping on transit. It’s well connected by subway, super walkable, and packed with solid hotel options—many of them a little quieter and more business-like in feel.
It’s a great base for first-time visitors, couples, or anyone who wants to be close to Odori Park’s big seasonal events like the Snow Festival or Summer Beer Garden, without staying right in the middle of the action. You’ll also be within walking distance of the Sapporo Clock Tower, Nijo Market, Former Hokkaido Government Building, and shopping arcades like Tanukikoji and Sapporo Factory.
The vibe here is clean and comfortable—less nightlife, more neat rows of trees, cafés, and wide sidewalks. It won’t win awards for character, but it’s central, quiet, and super easy to explore from!
Pros
- Walkable to both Sapporo Station and Odori Park
- Well-connected by subway and bus, central to major sights
- Upscale feel with government buildings, cafés, and refined dining
Cons
- Quiet at night, with fewer restaurants and bars
- More business-like, with less character than Susukino or historic areas
Cross Hotel Sapporo – $$$
Cross Hotel Sapporo is a polished four-star stay that offers surprising perks for its size—like a rooftop public bath (onsen style) with views over the city skyline, separated between genders for a more authentic experience. Located just a 5-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station and around 15 minutes on foot from Susukino, it’s perfectly positioned for exploring both ends of the city.
Rooms here are modern, air-conditioned, and spacious by Japanese city standards, with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and desks. There’s also a French-inspired restaurant on-site and a generous breakfast buffet that covers everything from Japanese staples to flaky pastries.
Prices tend to range from around $150 to $300 USD per night, depending on the season and room type, which makes it a solid value for the level of comfort and location you’re getting.
Reserve your room here before they book up!
Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo – $$
Hotel Monterey Edelhof Sapporo is a refined stay just north of Odori Park, about a 7-minute walk from Sapporo Station and close to the Clock Tower and TV Tower. The style leans European-classic, with spacious rooms, plush beds, and thoughtful touches like air purifiers, slippers, and luxe toiletries.
One of the standout features is the 14th-floor spa, which includes a sauna and onsen-style baths—perfect for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. There’s also a Japanese restaurant on-site and a buffet breakfast with both Western and local dishes.
Rooms start as low as $90 USD per night and range from compact doubles to premium suites. It’s a great option if you’re after a more serene, upscale vibe without sacrificing location.
Check availability and book this stay with FREE cancellation options here!
Sapporo Grand Hotel – $$
Sapporo Grand Hotel is a landmark stay that first opened its doors in 1934 and remains one of the city’s most iconic properties. Just a 5-minute walk from JR Sapporo Station via an underground arcade, plus steps from Odori Park and the Clock Tower, it’s incredibly well placed.
The hotel blends classic elegance with modern convenience: its 500+ rooms include both older-style and renovated options, all equipped with air conditioning, free Wi‑Fi, minibars, work desks, slippers, and toiletries. There are seven on-site restaurants ranging from buffet breakfast to international cuisine and lounge bars.
And if that isn’t enough, there’s also a beauty salon, massage services, a shopping arcade, a small gym, and even an art gallery/museum on the premises. With rates typically falling between $80 and $200 USD per night, it’s an affordable and reliable choice for anyone wanting a touch of history and easy access to all of Sapporo’s city center highlights.
Have a look at all the room options and reserve your stay here!
Susukino Area
If you want to be in the middle of the action, Susukino is where it’s at. Known as Sapporo’s entertainment district, this area is packed with bars, ramen shops, izakayas, karaoke joints, pachinko parlors, and neon-lit energy late into the night. It’s often compared to a mini Shinjuku (but with more miso ramen and snow).
Susukino is perfect for night owls, foodies, and anyone who wants to soak up a more lively, local side of Sapporo. It’s especially fun in the evenings, when the streets come alive and you can hop between steamy noodle shops, sake bars, and dessert cafés without walking more than a block.
It’s also just one subway stop south of Odori Station (or a 10–15 minute walk), so you’re still close to the main sights during the day, like Odori Park, the Clock Tower, and the Sapporo TV Tower.
Pros
- Loads of restaurants, nightlife, and energy right outside your door
- Great for food lovers, especially ramen fans
Cons
- Can be noisy at night, depending on where you stay
- Not the best fit for travelers seeking a quiet and relaxing stay
Randor Residence Susukino Suites – $$$
Randor Residence Susukino Suites is a breath of fresh air in Susukino—each suite occupies an entire floor, offering 60–90 m² of space, private kitchens, living areas, and indulgent spa-style bathrooms with hot tubs or hinoki tubs. It’s just a few minutes’ stroll from Susukino Station and neon-lit ramen alleys, perfect if you want nightlife on your doorstep but still crave a peaceful retreat at night.
There’s free Wi‑Fi, a 24‑hour front desk, secure luggage storage, and off-street parking. With only 5–8 suites total, it feels more like a boutique residence than a busy hotel. Rates generally range from $160 to $400 USD, depending on suite size and season.
Check availability and book your family suite here today!
Sapporo Stream Hotel – $$
Sapporo Stream Hotel is a sleek, modern spot perched right above Susukino Station, making it incredibly convenient if you’re planning to spend your time eating, exploring, or bar hopping through Sapporo’s liveliest neighborhood. The location makes it super easy to access Odori Park and Sapporo Station, too.
The rooms are smartly designed and quiet despite being in the thick of it, with comfy beds, crisp linens, free Wi-Fi, and city views. You’ll also find thoughtful extras like a fitness center, terrace, and a restaurant/bar that serves up both casual bites and cocktails.
There’s a range of room types here, from compact doubles to premium suites, with prices typically starting around $90 USD and climbing to over $1,000 USD for the top-tier options. If you want to stay somewhere fresh, stylish, and seriously well-connected, this one’s a solid pick.
Book your comfortable Susukino stay online here!
Quintessa Hotel Sapporo Susukino – $
Quintessa Hotel Sapporo Susukino is a stylish and convenient pick just a short stroll from Susukino Station, placing you right in the heart of Sapporo’s most energetic neighborhood. With easy access to restaurants, izakayas, and the subway, it’s a great base for both sightseeing and nightlife.
The rooms are clean, bright, and comfortably sized, with all the essentials—free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and modern bathrooms with bidets. There’s also a hearty breakfast buffet each morning, featuring a mix of Japanese and Western options. It’s included in many of the room rates, or can be purchased for just $14 USD.
The hotel also offers 24-hour reception, luggage storage, and on-site parking, making it a practical choice for longer stays too. Prices generally range from $120 to $250 USD per night, depending on your room type and travel dates.
Check availability and reserve your room here!
Nakajima Park
Just south of the Susukino entertainment district lies Nakajima Park—Sapporo’s green heart and an underrated gem for those who appreciate a balanced trip. Spanning around 21 hectares (52 acres), this leafy oasis offers ponds, wooded paths, and plenty of benches—perfect for a slow morning stroll or a picnic. Scattered through the park are key cultural spots like the historic Hōheikan, the elegant Japanese garden with its tea house, and the impressive Kitara Symphony Hall, a magnet for classical music fans.
Nakajima Park is ideal for families, couples seeking calm, and anyone who wants to experience more of Sapporo’s local life. It also hosts seasonal activities—from boat rentals in summer to cross-country skiing trails in winter—so it offers something fun in every season.
Getting here is also easy: take the Namboku Line to Nakajima-Kōen Station or ride the vintage streetcar to Nakajima-Kōen-Dōri. Even though it borders the lively Susukino, stepping into the park feels like entering a different world!
Pros
- A green, year‑round escape in the city—great for strolls, boating, or even skiing
- Cultural touchpoints inside the park (Hoheikan, tea house, Kitara Hall)
Cons
- Fewer cafés or restaurants inside the park—must walk out for food
- Quieter with less nightlife and evening entertainment
Hotel JAL City Sapporo Nakajima Park- $$$
Hotel JAL City Sapporo Nakajima Park strikes a perfect balance between tranquility and convenience. Just a three-minute walk from Nakajima-Kōen Station and a ten-minute stroll to the action of Susukino, it’s ideally situated for exploring while still enjoying a peaceful night’s sleep.
Rooms are modern, bright, and thoughtfully designed, with comfy beds, bathtubs, and extras like mini-fridges and coffee machines. There’s also a soothing public bath area—complete with sauna for men and a jet bath for women—perfect for unwinding after a busy day. The hotel also offers free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and paid private parking.
If you want a restful stay that’s still close to the city’s main sights, this one is a winner. Prices typically range from $150 to $300 USD per night, depending on the room type and season.
Book your relaxing stay in Nakajima Park here!
Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo – $$
Courtyard by Marriott Sapporo is a smart mid-range pick just a short walk from Nakajima-Kōen Station and directly across from the park’s lush lake and green trails. Opened in 2024, this clean and bright hotel features contemporary rooms with comfy beds, free Wi‑Fi, and minibars—perfect for relaxing after a full day spent exploring the city.
Start your morning with a solid buffet breakfast, then unwind in the Japanese-style public bath onsite after sightseeing or a workout in the 24-hour fitness center. Dining is covered with two on-site options: Substance, serving Hokkaido-inspired dishes all day, and a cozy lounge bar for evening drinks. Plus, there’s private parking if you’re driving.
With rates usually between $150 and $250 USD per night, this is a great choice for anyone who wants style, convenience, and a touch of local flavor.
Book your stay in advance on Booking.com!
Premier Hotel Nakajima Park Sapporo – $
Located just steps from Nakajima Park and a 4-minute walk from the subway, Premier Hotel Nakajima Park Sapporo is a standout blend of convenience and comfort. Guests consistently rave about the spacious rooms and the incredible views, whether you’re looking out over park greenery or downtown city lights.
You’ll find three stylish on-site restaurants, including a top-floor teppanyaki spot, plus a lounge bar—ideal for a relaxed drink after dinner. Other perks include a soothing public bath area, a garden, massage services, free Wi‑Fi, private parking, and a free welcome drink in the lobby.
With rates usually ranging anywhere from $100 USD to over $1,000 USD for a suite, it’s a sophisticated yet easygoing choice that caters to a variety of budgets and types of travelers.
Check availability and prices for your travel dates here!
Top Activities to do in Sapporo
Now that you’ve found the perfect area and hotel to stay, you can start planning your itinerary! Sapporo is fun to visit in any season, and we have a few activities that are available year-round. Here are a few of our favorite things we did in Sapporo:
- Food and bar hopping tour – This 3-hour food tour was a great intro to Sapporo’s famous gastro scene. Known for its ramen and beer, we hopped through the city, stopping by izakayas and local watering holes – it was so fun and tasty!
- Soba cooking class – Learning how to cook soba noodles in this cooking class is perhaps the best souvenir you can take home. We had the best time learning the art of rolling the dough and mixing the delicious sauce to top it, plus our local guide was so helpful!
- Day trip to Otaru & Nikka Whisky Distillery – Step outside of Sapporo on this full-day tour to Otaru! The town was charming and beautiful, and we loved stopping by the Nikka Distillery to sample some locally made whisky. It made for a great day out!
- Sapporo sightseeing tour – If you’re short on time, this guided sightseeing tour is the best way to experience Sapporo! The guides will take you to 3-4 of the main city sights, which makes travel logistics a breeze, and you get to more so much more.
- Enjoy Hokkaido’s outdoors – Escape the city and experience the greater region of Hokkaido on this full-day tour. We visited Asahiyama Zoo, Biei’s Blue Pond, Shirahige Falls, and Furano’s Ningle Terrace all in one day – which would have been impossible on our own!
Related Read: Looking for more activities? Here is the full list of the top things to do in Sapporo. You’ll never be bored here!
Renting a Car in Japan
Japan’s trains are great, but if you want to explore rural areas, scenic routes, or off-the-beaten path hidden gems, renting a car offers unmatched flexibility. Driving in Japan is generally safe, with well-maintained roads and clear signage, though there are some unique rules and customs to be aware of.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare multiple provider prices, check company ratings, filter for the type of vehicle you want, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Japan
- Drive on the left: In Japan, vehicles drive on the left-hand side of the road. The driver’s seat is on the right, and you’ll need to adjust to roundabouts and different road layouts. Take some time to get comfortable before hitting busy roads.
- Know the local rules: You must come to a full stop at “止まれ” (stop) signs, and pedestrians always have the right of way. It’s also mandatory for all passengers to wear seatbelts, even in the back seat. It’s also a good idea to brush up on the Japanese road signs before you go. They are mainly symbol based, and being able to recognize them will make your journey a lot smoother!
- Insurance is essential: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance—especially in Japan, where tight city parking, narrow village streets, and even wildlife on roads (like deer in Hokkaido) can lead to unexpected dings or damage. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Roads and parking spots in Japan can be tight, especially in cities and older towns, so a small or mid-sized car is usually best. Discover Cars makes it easy to filter by transmission, fuel type (like hybrid), luggage space, and more, so you can find exactly what works for your trip.
- Watch for toll roads: Japan has an extensive network of toll roads (expressways). Tolls can be paid by cash or card, but it’s worth checking if your rental car comes with an ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) card for convenience.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Japan
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) under the 1949 Geneva Convention. This is a must—it’s the only version Japan recognizes, and you’ll need to get it before arriving.
- A credit card in the driver’s name for the deposit.
- Most companies require you to be at least 18 years old, and some may require you to have held a license for at least one year. Drivers under 25 may face additional fees.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the Japan on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope that you found this guide helpful as you plan your Sapporo getaway! Each area has a distinct vibe, so I know you’ll find somewhere perfect to stay, no matter what type of traveler you are. If these hotels still have availablity when you’re ready to book, they will be your best options!
Need help planning the rest of your trip? Check out our other Japan blogs! We have more guides on the top things to do, city itineraries, and where to stay to help you plan your ultimate Japan vacation. Here are a few related blogs to get you started:
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